David DuBois, president and CEO, iAEEDavid DuBois, president and CEO of International Association of Exhibitions and Events, announced plans to retire, effective Dec. 31. DuBois led the organization for 11 years, including steering it through the pandemic. He will serve IAEE through the remainder of the year, focusing on its strategic growth initiatives and advancing its member community.
"IAEE is a large and diverse global association that represents a vast ecosystem," said DuBois. "I look forward to continuing to lead the exhibitions and events industry's trade association and over the months ahead, my goal is for IAEE to continue delivering valuable programs to our members and stakeholders globally."
Prior to joining IAEE in 2012, DuBois spent five years at the helm of the Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau as its president and CEO. His accomplished career also includes serving as COO of Meeting Professionals International and executive director of the MPI Foundation. In addition, DuBois spent 12 years at the Professional Convention Management Association, where he held the titles of president/CEO and senior vice president.
"We appreciate everything David has accomplished during his tenure at the association and are grateful for his leadership and service to IAEE members," said Dennis Smith, vice president of business development for the Asian American Hotel Owners Association and chairperson of IAEE's Board of Directors. "The IAEE Board is following a well-guided succession plan and is committed to paving the direction forward with new leadership to position the association for future growth."
SearchWide Global has been enlisted to help IAEE identify and recruit its next leader. The organization will begin the search process by conducting a detailed needs assessment, with a goal of posting the official position in late June.